Michael Lowry (Tipperary North, Independent)

I welcome the opportunity to speak on the vital issue of broadband services. It is obvious that an adequate broadband service is an integral component in ensuring the ongoing viability and sustainability of rural communities. Modern broadband is central to promoting entrepreneurship and developing a knowledge-based economy.

While progress has been made on broadband roll out, extensive areas of north Tipperary, such as Templederry, Moyne, Rear Cross, Silvermines and Toomevara, still remain without this vital service. We have a duty and responsibility to ensure both the Government and private service providers guarantee these communities are connected at the earliest possible date.

Lack of employment opportunities in our towns and villages mean that countless people must endure a daily long-distance commute to and from work elsewhere. This, combined with the stresses of modern life, has eroded many people's quality of life. With changes in technology and communications, more people are able to work and run businesses from home. Broadband is central to providing this lifestyle alternative.

Broadband Internet connection is vital in maintaining the competitiveness and attractiveness of the north Tipperary economy. Being able to communicate electronically at the fastest possible speed will ensure places like north Tipperary will be an attractive area to invest in for both foreign and indigenous companies. Having broadband access will enhance the regions for foreign investors. Broadband can, and will, play a significant part in securing future economic growth. The availability of high quality information technology is important in supporting industry and jobs.

For some inexplicable reason, Thurles was omitted by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources from the second phase of MAN roll-out to enable the provision of high-speed and competitively priced broadband services. I am pleased that, in return for my agreement to support the Government, the Department is now committed to prioritising the construction of a MAN in Thurles which will include a link to the Archerstown industrial estate.

The presence of this network in Thurles will make it feasible and commercially viable for licensed operators to offer the latest broadband services to businesses, commercial interests, public services and other users. It will ensure Thurles is on an equal par with any other town in Ireland and the world for broadband provision.

I welcome the initiative by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to prepare a comprehensive paper on the provision of next-generation broadband options. His initiative with the national broadband scheme promises Government aid to ensure broadband for all unserviced areas by the end of 2009. His policy initiatives, however, must take into account new and developing forms of broadband technology with the excellent opportunities they present. Technologies such as WiMAX and mobile broadband have made significant advances in recent times. I urge the Minister to grasp the opportunities offered by these alternatives and initiate Government pilot schemes to assess their viability. I will put forward to the Minister communities in north Tipperary that would be ideal locations for the testing of such types of broadband.

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